Report on the Impact of Global Warming on the Great Barrier Reef

Introduction

New research suggests that certain deeper areas of the Great Barrier Reef are currently shielded from harmful heatwaves; however, this protective effect is at risk of being compromised if global warming persists.

Background

In five of the last eight years, high surface temperatures have caused the Great Barrier Reef to “bleach,” with the most recent instance occurring right now. Sea surface temperatures are typically used in climate change estimates for coral reefs; However, this ignores the reality that deeper water does not always warm at the same rate as the surface.

Research Findings

The latest study, headed by the universities of Exeter and Queensland, examined how temperature changes will affect mesophotic corals, which are found in depths of 30 to 50 m. Reefs can be protected from surface heatwaves by dividing warmer, buoyant surface water from cooler, deeper water. However, reef protection is lost if global warming surpasses 3 °C above pre-industrial levels.

The degree to which deeper water coral refuges exist and remain isolated from surface heatwaves will vary depending on local circumstances impacting how the water moves and mixes, the researchers say. Similar patterns could occur on other reefs globally.

Impact on Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)

1. SDG 13: Climate Action – The research highlights the urgent need for climate action to prevent the loss of protective measures for the Great Barrier Reef and other coral reefs globally.
2. SDG 14: Life Below Water – The study emphasizes the importance of preserving coral reefs, which are vital ecosystems supporting marine biodiversity and providing livelihoods for millions of people.

Expert Opinion

“Coral reefs are the canary in the coalmine, warning us of the many species and ecosystems affected by climate change. Coral bleaching is a dramatic sign of the impact humans are having on the planet. Our study offers both hope and a warning – hope that some reefs are resilient to current levels of climate change, and a warning that this resilience has its limits.”

Dr. Jennifer McWhorter, Lead Research, University of Exeter

Conclusion

The research findings indicate that deeper areas of the Great Barrier Reef currently provide protection against heatwaves. However, this protective effect is at risk if global warming continues. It is crucial to take immediate climate action to prevent the loss of this protective measure and preserve coral reefs for future generations.

Journal Reference

McWhorter, K. J., et al. (2024) Climate change impacts on mesophotic regions of the Great Barrier Reef. Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences. doi.org/10.1073/pnas.2303336121

Sources:

• AZoCleantech
• University of Exeter

SDGs, Targets, and Indicators

1. SDG 13: Climate Action

   • Target 13.1: Strengthen resilience and adaptive capacity to climate-related hazards and natural disasters
   • Target 13.2: Integrate climate change measures into national policies, strategies, and planning
   • Target 13.3: Improve education, awareness-raising, and human and institutional capacity on climate change mitigation, adaptation, impact reduction, and early warning
   • Target 13.4: Implement the commitment undertaken by developed-country parties to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change to a goal of mobilizing jointly $100 billion annually by 2020 from all sources to address the needs of developing countries in the context of meaningful mitigation actions and transparency on implementation and fully operationalize the Green Climate Fund through its capitalization as soon as possible
   • Target 13.5: Promote mechanisms for raising capacity for effective climate change-related planning and management in least developed countries and small island developing States, including focusing on women, youth, and local and marginalized communities

   The article addresses SDG 13 as it discusses the impact of global warming on the Great Barrier Reef and the need to protect coral reefs from climate change.

2. SDG 14: Life Below Water

   • Target 14.2: Sustainably manage and protect marine and coastal ecosystems to avoid significant adverse impacts, including by strengthening their resilience and take action for their restoration in order to achieve healthy and productive oceans
   • Target 14.7: By 2030, increase the economic benefits to small island developing States and least developed countries from the sustainable use of marine resources, including through sustainable management of fisheries, aquaculture, and tourism

   The article is connected to SDG 14 as it discusses the impact of rising temperatures on the Great Barrier Reef, which is a marine ecosystem, and the need to protect and manage marine resources.

Behold! This splendid article springs forth from the wellspring of knowledge, shaped by a wondrous proprietary AI technology that delved into a vast ocean of data, illuminating the path towards the Sustainable Development Goals. Remember that all rights are reserved by SDG Investors LLC, empowering us to champion progress together.

Source: azocleantech.com

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